Former senior vice president of Hardware Engineering John Ternus has officially replaced Tim Cook as the new executive chairman of American technology company Apple. 

The change officially came into effect on Tuesday following an initial announcement in April of this year that Mr Cook would step down from his position as the CEO of the company after 15 years at its helm of affairs. 

“Apple announced that Tim Cook will become executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors and John Ternus, senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become Apple’s next chief executive officer effective on September 1, 2026. 

“The transition, which was approved unanimously by the Board of Directors, follows a thoughtful, long-term succession planning process,” Apple said in a statement at the time. 

According to Apple, Mr Ternus joined the company in 2001. He became the vice president of Hardware Engineering in 2013 before his latest promotion as the CEO of the technology manufacturer in 2026. 

Meanwhile, Mr Cook has immediately taken up the position as the new executive chairman of Apple’s Board of Directors and will assist his successor with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world.